Participants in a China-funded internship program recently visited the Chinese Mission in Geneva. This initiative is part of China's Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Accessions Programme, which began in 2011 to enhance LDCs' involvement in the multilateral trading system and assist governments seeking World Trade Organization (WTO) membership.
The program annually accommodates ten interns. Five focus on WTO accession processes and the rules-based trading system, preparing for careers in trade law, international economics, and international relations. The other five gain experience across various WTO divisions to tackle global trade challenges.
Other aspects of the China Programme include facilitating Annual China Round Tables on WTO Accessions, South-South dialogue on LDCs and development, LDCs' Trade Policy Review follow-up Workshops, LDCs' Experience Sharing Programme, and participation in selected WTO meetings.
China's Ambassador to the WTO, LI Chenggang, remarked on the positive impact of the internship over 13 years: "So far, the WTO China Programme has sponsored internship opportunities for 58 young professionals from more than 39 developing countries, including 16 LDCs." He noted China's commitment to capacity building in developing economies.
Ambassador LI also emphasized: “DG Ngozi has often said the WTO is for the people. For the WTO to better deliver for LDCs and other developing members, one of the keys is people like you if you could bring what you have learnt during the internship to better serve your motherland, your people and humankind.”
During their visit, participants engaged with China's senior delegates and experts on topics such as accessions, dispute settlement, investment facilitation for development, trade and development, trade in services, and e-commerce.
Representatives from the WTO's Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation (ITTC) attended as well. They acknowledged China's ongoing support for capacity building efforts and an inclusive multilateral trading system.
Raul Mammadov from Azerbaijan shared his experience: "This programme is providing me with first-hand experience of my country's WTO accession process. It has been an important opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to our countries while gaining a broader perspective of multilateral trade by working within an international organization."
Milzat Salime from Comoros highlighted her career aspirations: "With a background in international relations and peace, I am particularly interested in exploring the intersection of trade, peace and development. Supporting Comoros' post-accession work has also been a highlight of this experience."
Saniya Khanna from India stated: "I have been working specifically on e-commerce, digital trade, and WTO trade reports. This experience has been truly eye-opening, particularly in understanding China's perspective on e-commerce."
Diyora Shukurova from Uzbekistan mentioned skills gained: "I am involved in developing training courses for government officials as part of the WTO Technical Assistance Programmes, and I look forward to applying these skills in my home country."